Police have issued a warning to drone operators after being advised of two incidents where drones came dangerously close to flights approaching Auckland Airport on Sunday night.

Police received a report around 9pm that a drone, flying at approximately 300m, interfered with the approach of an incoming aircraft.

It was followed by a second incident, about 40 minutes later, involvinganotherdrone also flown in controlled airspace, estimated to be around 200m.

Police issued a warning reminding drone operators of civil aviation rules, which state drones are not to be flown at night, must not go higher than 120m and must have air-traffic control permission to fly in a controlled airspace.

According to the Auckland City Council website, in the area around Auckland Airport, drones cannot be flown above the height of nearby trees and structures. Police have refused to give further information about last night's incidents as investigations continue.